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Rep. Yoho Statement on Taiwan Arms Sales

Jun 29, 2017

Press Release

Washington, D.C. – Congressman Ted S. Yoho (R-FL), Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on Asia and the Pacific, issued the following statement on today’s announcement of U.S. arms sales to Taiwan:

“I commend in the strongest terms the President’s decision to resume U.S. arms sales to Taiwan, a long overdue step that reaffirms the United States’ commitment to Taiwan. In 1979 the United States committed itself to maintaining cultural, economic, and security ties with Taiwan when the Taiwan Relations Act became law. The Act requires the executive branch to make available to Taiwan sufficient self-defense capabilities, but successive administrations have needlessly delayed arms sales, undermining the United States’ long-standing commitment and the security of Taiwan. I hope that this administration continues to uphold the mandate of the Taiwan Relations Act through the regular and consistent sale of arms to Taiwan.

“I will also be introducing an amendment to the FY18 National Defense Authorization Act that will hold future administrations accountable when it comes to regular arms sales to Taiwan by enhancing Congressional oversight. Also, I believe that this administration should seek out every opportunity to strengthen U.S.-Taiwan ties with a Bilateral Trade Agreement, as it would serve as a mechanism that would promote peace and stability throughout the Asia-Pacific region.”